Install a new fixture safely and quickly
Time An hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
CostLess than $20
Introduction
Pull chain light fixtures are easy to replace when the switch wears out or breaks. We show you how to replace it safely and quickly. It'll only take about 15 minutes.
A pull chain light fixture is handy for basements and storage areas—until it quits working. The internal switch mechanism can wear out, or pulling too hard on the cord can snap the chain or pull it out of the fixture completely. Replacing the broken fixture is simple and inexpensive. Pull-chain fixtures (available at any home center or hardware store) are made from plastic or porcelain, but we recommend porcelain because it withstands heat better and lasts longer.
There may be an unused bare ground wire inside the electrical box. If it falls down while you’re replacing the fixture, wrap it in a circle and push it up as far into the electrical box as possible.
- CAUTION: Aluminum wiring requires special handling. If you have aluminum wiring, call in a licensed pro who’s certified to work with it. This wiring is dull gray, not the dull orange that’s characteristic of copper.
Tools Required
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
- Voltage tester
- Wire stripper/cutter
Materials Required
- Pull-chain fixture
Project step-by-step (3)
Step 1
Test for hot wires
Turn off the power, remove the light bulb and unscrew the fixture from the electrical box. Pull the fixture down, but keep your hands away from the wires. Touch one voltage tester probe to the black wire and the other to the white wire. If the voltage indicator doesn’t light up, the power is off.
- CAUTION: Turn off the power at the main panel.
Step 2
Disconnect the wires
Loosen the terminal screws and unhook the wiring from the old fixture. If the wire ends are broken or corroded, strip off 3/4 inch of sheathing and bend the bare wire end into a hook.
Step 3
Connect the new fixture
Attach the black wire to the gold terminal screw on the new fixture and the white wire to the silver terminal screw. Wrap the wires clockwise so they cover at least three-quarters of the terminal screws. Firmly tighten the screws so the copper wire compresses slightly. Twist the fixture to spiral the wires into the electrical box. Screw the new fixture to the box snugly, but don’t over-tighten it, or the porcelain might crack.
FAQ
What should I do if the pull-chain mechanism is broken but the fixture is otherwise fine?
You can replace the pull chain mechanism without replacing the fixture. Purchase a pull chain switch replacement like this one. Turn the power off at the breaker before you make the repair. Then, remove the light bulb and fixture cover to access the switch mechanism. Remove the old switch and attach the new one following the product instructions.
How do I test the new fixture after installation?
To test your new fixture, turn the power back on at the breaker box, then simply switch on the light. If the new fixture isn’t working, check for obvious issues like a loose bulb or whether the circuit breaker as tripped. Troubleshooting beyond that includes inspecting wire connections, tightening mounting screws, and looking for damaged wires.
